Explore the Wave Interference Simulator
Two wave sources create constructive and destructive interference patterns. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
Illustration. Open the tool for the real thing.
See it in action
The Wave Interference Simulator with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Wave Interference Simulator?
Two wave sources create constructive and destructive interference patterns. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
Noise-cancelling headphones, radio antenna arrays, ripple tanks and concert-hall design all rely on wave interference. Fishermen and engineers also use it to understand harbour waves.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
Where crests meet crests the waves add up: constructive interference.
Where crests meet troughs they cancel: destructive interference.
Higher frequency means shorter wavelength and more interference lines.
Set the phase difference to 180° and watch the pattern flip.
Increase the source separation and count the lines.
Switch to one source and compare.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Physics learners
Physics students in middle school, high school and first-year university, teachers who want a quick demonstration for the projector, and anyone revising for exams.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Wave Interference Simulator on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Increase the source separation and count the lines. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
What is constructive interference?
It happens when two waves are in phase and add together to make a larger wave. In the simulator these are the bright bands.
What is destructive interference?
It happens when waves are out of phase and cancel. In the simulator these are the dark bands where the water stays still.
Is the Wave Interference Simulator free to use?
Yes. The Wave Interference Simulator is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Physics group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Wave Interference Simulator work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Wave Interference Simulator takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 6 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
How do I use the Wave Interference Simulator?
1. In the Wave Interference Simulator, use the controls to change Medium, Wavelength, Source / slit separation, Slit width, Phase difference, and more. The simulation reacts instantly. 2. In the Wave Interference Simulator, pick an option such as Two sources, Slits, Water, Sound to switch modes or load an example. 3. In the Wave Interference Simulator, press "Pause / play" to start, reset or change what is happening. 4. Start with this experiment: Set the phase difference to 180° and watch the pattern flip. Drag any glowing handle, object or slider with your mouse or finger and the Wave Interference Simulator responds in real time. 5. Change one setting at a time and watch which readout moves, then compare it with this idea: Where crests meet crests the waves add up: constructive interference.
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Try the Wave Interference Simulator now
Two wave sources create constructive and destructive interference patterns. Free to use.
Try it free